Alabama State University (ASU) is dedicated to safeguarding the safety, health, and welfare of its faculty, students, and visitors across its premises and facilities. Recognizing the serious threat posed by drug and alcohol abuse, ASU upholds a steadfast dedication to fostering a drug-free environment and smoke-free environment conducive to learning and working for all its constituents.

Information is provided annually to all students and employees of Alabama State University in compliance with our policies and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989. More information can be found at the following websites:

• Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual
• Faculty Handbook
• “The Pilot” – Student Handbook

Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act Requirements

• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy

Alabama State University has an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy to ensure that no employee under any circumstances come to work under the influence of drugs/alcohol and to ensure all employees abide by the laws pertaining to alcohol and drug use while at work. No person may consume or be under the influence of alcohol while attending classes, at any official meetings, or while fulfilling employment responsibilities. Employees must conduct themselves responsibly and professionally at all times.

• Reporting Violations of the Alcohol/Drug Policy

Complaints made by University employees and/or guests about a University employee should be reported in writing to the employee’s immediate supervisor (i.e., supervisor, department head), and then the supervisor will contact the Office of Human Resources.

• Self-Identification

An employee may voluntarily admit that he or she may be impaired due to drug or alcohol use. Discipline will not be initiated because an employee self-identifies. The employee will be referred to a substance abuse professional (SAP) for evaluation and testing. An employee will not be permitted to drive until the substance abuse professional (SAP) has released the employee for driving. The employee will be subject to return to work/follow-up testing.  An employee involved in rehabilitation may be accommodated within the employee’s department by being placed in a non-safety-sensitive position if appropriate and available. If a non-safety-sensitive position is not available, the employee will be placed on leave (paid and unpaid as available) until completion of the rehabilitation program.

Self – identification must be totally voluntary and is not allowed after an employee has been notified to report for a random, post-accident, or reasonable-cause test. The employee will still be required to report for the tests stated above.

Implementation of the University’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP)

The University’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) is housed under the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The units on the campus that work together to implement this program are Student Life, Counseling Services, Health Center, and Public Safety.

ASU is committed to:

1. Establish and consistently uphold clear policies that advocate for an educational setting free from drug and alcohol abuse.
2. Continuously educate the campus community to prevent instances of drug and alcohol abuse.
3. Provide care for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol dependency through counseling, treatment, and referrals.
4. Organize campus initiatives that bolster health, responsible conduct, adherence to community and campus norms, personal accountability, and holistic well-being encompassing intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual, ethical, and physical facets.
5. Take a vocal and proactive stance against the adverse effects of drug and alcohol consumption and abuse within the campus milieu.

In alignment with its commitment to delivering exceptional service to its stakeholders, ASU has instituted a comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) accessible to all members of the campus community. The University is dedicated to disseminating awareness regarding drug and alcohol abuse among students, faculty, and staff.

Employee and Student Assistance Programs

• In emergencies, individuals can dial 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.

University Assistance

• Life Assistance Program (LAP):Alabama State University’s Life Assistance Program is the confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP). LAP provides support and guidance for matters that range from personal issues one might be facing to providing information on every day topics that affect your life (i.e., Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Separation, Drugs, Alcohol, etc.).

 Location: Office of Human Resources, Council Hall, Rm. 235

Phone: 334-229-4667

• Health Center: The ASU Health Center provides students with education programs to promote wellness, prevent illness, and maintain health. The Health Center provides students and employees medical evaluation to include matters for alcohol and other drug concerns, treatment and/or referral for intensive inpatient or outpatient services when indicated.

 Location: The Health Center, Simpson Hall, Ground Floor

Phone: 334-229-4436

• The Counseling Center: ASU Counseling Center provides assessment, education and first-level intervention (individual & group counseling) for students with alcohol and other drug concerns.  Referrals are provided for intensive inpatient or outpatient services when indicated.  Educational information on alcohol and other drugs is available through the ASU Counseling Center.  Staff is available to provide campus-wide educational programs upon request. 

Location: The Counseling Center, John G. Hardy Student Center, Rm. C-150

Phone: 334-229-4382

National Resources

• National Alcohol and Drug Abuse Help Line: 1-800-821-4357
• Alcohol Abuse 24 Hour Hotline: 1-800-950-7226
• The Department of Drug Enforcement provides Drug Fact Sheets.

Further Information

Inquiries concerning the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program be directed to studentaffairs@alasu.edu.  

Standards of Conduct

Students and employees of Alabama State University are prohibited from engaging in the unlawful manufacturing, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of illicit drugs or alcohol on any university property or during any university activity. Any employee found to be impaired by illegal drugs or alcohol will be denied access to the workplace and will be unable to fulfill any duties or represent the university in any capacity. Likewise, any student impaired by illegal drugs or alcohol will be unable to attend classes or participate in university activities.

Disciplinary Sanctions

The university will impose sanctions, in accordance with local, state, and federal laws, to individuals who breach these conduct standards, be they employees or students. Such sanctions may encompass various actions, including but not confined to:

1. Referral for legal prosecution.
2. Student probation, suspension, or expulsion.
3. Employee suspension or termination.

University policies outlining potential disciplinary measures include the following:

• “The Pilot” – Student Handbook
• Human Resources Policy and Procedure Manual
• Faculty Handbook

Warning Signs of Drug and/or Alcohol Abuse

Observing changes in someone's behavior can serve as a crucial indicator of potential substance abuse. Some common behavioral shifts to be mindful of include:

1. Sudden and significant alterations in social circles, eating habits, sleeping patterns, physical appearance, coordination, or academic performance.
2. Loss of enthusiasm or engagement in once-beloved hobbies or family-oriented activities.
3. Displaying a hostile or uncooperative demeanor, particularly when questioned about their actions or possessions.
4. Engaging in secretive behavior or being evasive about their whereabouts or activities.
5. Experiencing financial difficulties or exhibiting unexplained requests for money, potentially resorting to theft.
6. Discovery of medication containers despite the absence of an illness, or encountering drug paraphernalia in the individual's personal space.
7. Noticing an unusual chemical or medicinal odor emanating from the individual or their living quarters.

These behavioral changes, if observed, may suggest the presence of substance abuse and warrant further attention or intervention.

REFERENCE: The Mayo Clinic

 Tips for Preventing Substance Abuse

 While there is no foolproof method to prevent substance abuse, adopting certain practices can significantly reduce the risk. Here are the top five strategies for preventing substance abuse:

1. Understand the Development of Substance Abuse:

• Recognize the pathways to substance abuse, which often involve:
  • Recreational use of addictive drugs, whether illicit or prescribed.
  • Consistent seeking of intoxication with each drug use.
  • Misuse or abuse of prescription medications.

2. Resist Temptation and Peer Pressure:

• Foster healthy relationships by distancing yourself from individuals who encourage substance use.
• Surround yourself with supportive peers who prioritize a drug-free lifestyle.
• Develop assertive refusal skills to confidently decline offers of drugs or alcohol.

3. Address Mental Health Concerns:

• Seek professional help for mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Engage with licensed therapists or counselors who can provide effective coping strategies.
• Learn healthy methods to manage symptoms without resorting to substance use.

4. Identify Risk Factors:

• Evaluate your family history of mental illness and addiction to understand potential genetic predispositions.
• Consider environmental and physical factors that may contribute to substance abuse.
• Increased awareness of personal risk factors enhances proactive measures for prevention.

5. Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle:

• Practice effective stress management techniques to navigate life's challenges without turning to drugs or alcohol.
• Cultivate a well-rounded life by prioritizing activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
• Set meaningful goals and aspirations for the future, focusing on achievements that align with a substance-free lifestyle.

Sharing these preventative strategies with friends and family can contribute to fostering a community committed to healthier living, free from the grip of addiction. Together, we can promote a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being and fulfillment, steering clear of the pitfalls of substance abuse

REFERENCE: National Institute on Drug Abuse: http://www.drugabuse.gov Above the Stress: http://www.abovetheinfluence.com SAMHSA: https://www.samhsa.gov/brss-tacs/recovery-support-tools/youth-young-adults.

Types of Drugs and Health Risks

• Alcohol
• Potential for physical and psychological dependence, leading to increased tolerance.
• Effects include impaired memory, slurred speech, and drunken behavior.
• Overdose can result in respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include trembling, anxiety, and hallucinations.
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome may occur in infants born to mothers who consumed alcohol during pregnancy.
• Associated with increased risk of acquaintance rape, STDs, and accidents, particularly among young adults.

• Narcotics
• High potential for physical and psychological dependence, leading to increased tolerance.
• Effects include euphoria, drowsiness, and respiratory depression.
• Overdose may result in coma and death.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include irritability, panic, and sweating.

• Other Depressants
• Potential for physical and psychological dependence, leading to increased tolerance.
• Effects include slurred speech and impaired memory.
• Overdose can result in shallow respiration, coma, and death.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, tremors, and convulsions.

• Stimulants
• Possible risk of physical dependence and high risk of psychological dependence.
• Effects include increased alertness, euphoria, and increased pulse rate.
• Overdose may result in agitation, hallucinations, and convulsions.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include apathy, irritability, and depression.

• Hallucinogens
• Less likely to result in physical dependence but vary in psychological dependence.
• Effects include heightened senses and altered perception.
• Overdose may result in increased body temperature and cardiac arrest.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include muscle aches and depression.

• Cannabis
• Moderate psychological dependence with potential for physical dependence.
• Effects include euphoria, increased appetite, and disorientation.
• Overdose may result in paranoia and possible psychosis.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include insomnia and decreased appetite.

• Anabolic Steroids
• May result in psychological dependence with uncertain physical dependence.
• Effects include virilization and aggressive behavior.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include depression.

• Inhalants
• Varying levels of psychological dependence with uncertain physical dependence.
• Effects include impaired memory and slurred speech.
• Overdose may result in respiratory depression and death.
• Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety and hallucinations.

For comprehensive information and resource guide, visit the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration website.

Biennial Review of the Program

In adherence to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) as delineated in the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) Part 86, Alabama State University conducts a comprehensive assessment of its alcohol and other drug (AOD) programs biennially.